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Amid deep freeze, Duke Energy offers tips on lowering the light bill

By Lightning Reports, Published: January 21, 2025

As the arctic blast drives temperature into the single digits, Duke Energy is urging customers to reduce energy use and save money is possible.

The utility "has detailed plans to manage the power grid in extreme conditions, and we are working these plans to help reliably meet the energy needs of our customers. We’re actively monitoring this dynamic forecast and are committed to keeping you informed as we adjust our operations and our outreach to customers."

Low- to no-cost energy-saving tips

As temperatures drop, Duke is encouraging customers to take control of their energy use and save money through no-cost, low-cost winter energy savings tips:

• Reduce your thermostat to the lowest comfortable setting. The closer you match your thermostat to outdoor temperatures, the more you can save.
• Change your air filter and schedule regular maintenance for your heating systems. Maintaining your heating systems can help increase efficiency.
• Leave drapes or blinds open on the sunny side of the home to allow the sun's rays to warm the house but close them at night to help insulate your home.
• Operate ceiling fans in a clockwise direction in the winter to push warm air back down into the room.
• Seal cracks in windows, doors and vents with caulking and weatherstripping to save 10% to 20% in heating costs.
• Replace standard bulbs with LEDs. LEDs are more efficient than regular bulbs, while giving off the same amount of light.
• Set your water heater to 120 degrees or less. Water heating is typically the second-biggest user of energy in your home.